A solid educational background in mechanical engineering with a focus on design is required for someone aspiring to be a mechanical design engineer. Before hiring a candidate for an independent position, many employers will look for mechanical engineering experience. Typically, this entails earning a bachelor’s degree and completing an internship, or working as an assistant engineer on a mechanical design team project. Employers typically seek self-starters for this position, expecting candidates to work independently when performing routine mechanical design tasks and only need introductory guidance when approaching new projects. To be considered for a position, candidates must be able to demonstrate successful application of mechanical design engineering principles.
To become a mechanical design engineer, you must first go to college and earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, preferably with a focus on mechanical design. Most major universities, both private and public, have engineering departments where beginning college students can find these programs. Because admission to these programs is competitive, classes taken in high school are crucial. Applicants must have a strong background in math and science, as well as coursework in mechanics. Students with excellent grades in advanced mathematics and sciences, as well as high achievement records overall in high school, are frequently given preference.
A student who is accepted into a mechanical engineering program will typically need four or five years to complete the program. He or she can expect to take a variety of advanced math, physical science, mechanics, mechanical design, and engineering courses. Students must either complete an internship working directly on a mechanical design project or accept an entry-level position working under the supervision of a mechanical design engineer after graduation. A candidate seeking to become a mechanical design engineer must demonstrate thorough knowledge of the theory and application of mechanical design engineering principles while serving as an employee or intern.
Aspirants are usually able to demonstrate the key skills, knowledge, and experience employers look for in the role after completing either an internship or a few years of experience working under the supervision of a mechanical design engineer. Those interested in working as a mechanical design engineer can begin applying for positions at this time. However, those with the most experience are frequently given preference, especially for positions requiring senior mechanical design engineers. It usually takes a few interviews for a new mechanical design engineer to land his or her first job in an independent role.